Smoke, Sweat, and Survival: Indonesia's Orangutans in Peril The image of Sampurna, a weak and suffering orangutan found in a West Kalimantan palm oil plantation amidst raging forest fires, is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of human activities on Indonesia's wildlife.
The 20 year old ape's respiratory illness, likely caused by thick smoke inhalation, is just one of many casualties in the ongoing battle between humans and the environment.
Indonesia has long been plagued by forest fires, with this year's toll already exceeding 202,010 hectares, a staggering increase from last year's 107,465 hectares.